Morris Animal Foundation

Morris Animal Foundation has been improving the health of animals worldwide for more than 70 years. We were founded by a veterinarian and continue to be a science-driven organization, funding scientists conducting crucial animal health studies globally as well as our own research. We’ve invested more than $136 million in the pursuit of disease management and eradication, all to benefit animals. We’re responsible for the development of diagnostic tools, vaccines, new drug therapies and surgical techniques. We partner with leaders in animal health to build on existing knowledge, unlock new discoveries and bring revolutionary treatments into practice. From urgent health crises in our cats and dogs to solutions for long-term survival of endangered species, we never stop trying to change the lives of animals for the better.

We fund more animal health studies, in more species, in more places around the world than any other organization. At any given time, we have over 200 studies underway to address important health challenges, from conducting the largest cancer-focused study on dogs, to supporting research critical to save the endangered Mongolian saiga antelope. The knowledge gained from our research is shared freely so that animals can benefit from our scientific advancements as soon as they are available.

We arm animal health professionals with knowledge and support those beginning in the field. It’s going to take the best and the brightest minds to help our planet’s diverse animal communities thrive. To that end, we actively support the work of established researchers as well as promising young investigators. We are a leading provider of unbiased scientific information, and apply the highest scientific standards to achieve innovative solutions to health challenges – all to usher our animal kingdom into a healthier future. It was the dream of Dr. Mark L. Morris Sr., when he established the Foundation in 1948, to advance veterinary medicine and improve animal health. We continue to make that dream a reality every day.

Our strategies are to fund scientific studies that advance the health of dogs, cats, horses and wildlife, and to disseminate information about these studies to veterinarians to incorporate in their daily practice in the clinic and in the field.

Staff of 50, volunteer scientific advisory boards (90 total professionals), $82 million endowment, 70+ year history and track record.

We have invested over $136 million in over 2,780 studies directly affecting 300 species with 20,000 species benefiting from our research. We have studied more than 400 animal health problems, advancing diagnostics, treatments, preventions and cures. Next, we have the ambition to double our funding for animal health research, particularly as the work of science becomes more expensive to conduct. Major areas of investment will be cancer, emerging infectious diseases, and environmental and climate impacts on animal health.